1 – Imagine — John Lennon
John Lennon’s iconic hit is often celebrated as an anthem of unity and hope. Lennon referred to the song as “virtually the Communist Manifesto,” using the power of sugarcoating to convey his message. He believed that wrapping his message in honey made it more palatable to listeners.
2 – Polly — Nirvana
In several interviews, Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain expressed that the band’s song “Polly” really has a deeper meaning about the tragedy of a young girl. This led to the band writing another entire song just to clarify that “Polly” was nothing to be cheerful about.
3 – Total Eclipse of The Heart — Bonnie Tyler
Originally written by Jim Steinman for a vampire-themed musical, the song was titled “Vampires in Love.” The lyrics, filled with references to darkness and the power of love within it, were intended to capture the essence of a vampire love story.
4 – Blackbird — The Beatles
This song is often misinterpreted as a song about a bird with broken wings. In reality, the song holds a more profound symbolism. Inspired by the American Civil Rights Movement, Paul McCartney used the Blackbird as a metaphor for the Black struggle.
5 – American Girl — Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers (1976)
It sure sounds like it is celebrating the American spirit, but that wasn’t what Petty had in mind. The true story behind it is about a young woman who feels trapped in her small town and dreams of escaping to a better life.
6 – In The Air Tonight — Phil Collins (1981)
Many people believe this song is about being deeply in love, especially with how it was featured in The Lion King. However, it reflects betrayal and the emotions that come with it. Phil Collins himself said that his feelings of anger and frustration inspired the song after going through a divorce.
7 – Born in The U.S.A. — Bruce Springsteen (1984)
I know the chorus might make you feel like saluting the American flag. But did you know the song critiques the treatment of Vietnam War veterans and their struggles upon returning home? So next time you’re singing along with passion, remember it’s a powerful call for empathy and understanding.
